Choosing Hiking Backpack Size: The Best Size for Your Next Outdoor Adventure
Whether for a hike, a city trip, or a multi-week trekking tour - choosing the right backpack size is crucial for your comfort on the go. A backpack that is too small will make you forget important equipment, while one that is too large will unnecessarily add weight to your shoulders. Here you will learn everything you need to know about the right backpack size!
Backpack Size Chart in Liters
The ideal size of your backpack depends on several factors:
- Type of activity: Day trips, trekking, travel
- Duration of the tour: One day, a weekend, a week, or longer
- Personal packing style: Minimalist or with extensive equipment
Backpacks are usually classified by their volume in liters. The liter measurement helps you estimate how much luggage the backpack can hold. However, the intended use and your personal packing style are also decisive.
Here is a rough guide:
| Volume (liters) | Backpack type | Application |
| up to 10 l | Daypacks | Day trips with little equipment |
| 10-30 l | Hiking backpack, bike backpack | City trip, day hike (cycling, hiking) |
| 25-35 l | Hiking backpack, bike backpack, mountaineering backpack | Longer hikes with overnight stay, mountaineering, multi-day bike tours |
| 30-50 l | Small trekking backpack, travel backpack | Weekend trips, light multi-day tours |
| 50-70 l | Trekking backpack, travel backpack | Multi-day tours with camping equipment |
How big should a hiking backpack be?
For day hikes, 20-30 liters is often sufficient. This provides space for provisions, a rain jacket, a water bottle, and other hiking accessories. If you are planning a multi-day tour, it should be at least 40-70 liters. This way you can also store clothing, sleeping bag, food, and possibly a tent and cooking equipment. It is important that you make a packing list and pack your backpack efficiently.
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The right backpack for hut toursFor a hut tour, a backpack with a capacity of 30-50 liters is usually sufficient. Since you don't need a tent or cooking equipment in the huts, you can pack a bit lighter. But don't forget clothes to change and a compact sleeping bag cover.
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Backpack sizes for the Camino de SantiagoFor the Camino de Santiago, a backpack volume of 40-50 liters is recommended. Here you need to rely on light luggage, as you often cover many kilometers per day. Choose a backpack with good ventilation on the back and reinforced shoulder straps.
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Determining the right backpack size: 5 tips
For certain types of backpacks, it is especially important to pay attention to the fit. While daypacks under 30 liters are generally light enough packed so that weight distribution on the hips does not matter, an incorrect fit of the hiking backpack can excessively strain certain areas during your excursions.
Measuring the back length for the hiking backpack: how to do it successfully!
For hiking backpacks, the correct back length is crucial: If the backpack is too short, the weight presses uncomfortably on the shoulders. A backpack that is too tall pulls the weight of the straps downward, causing you to lose balance more quickly. Therefore, when buying, choose a backpack that fits your body size.
To do this, you should measure your back length and select the backpack accordingly:
- Use the C7 cervical vertebra as a reference to find the first measuring point: Tilt your head slightly forward - just below your neck you can feel the C7 cervical vertebra, as it protrudes noticeably.
- Now place your hands on your hips and feel where your side pelvic bones end.
- The second measuring point is at the height of the upper pelvic edge.
- Place a flexible tape measure along the spine and measure the distance between these two points.
The right backpack for tall people
For tall people, we recommend a backpack with an extra-long back. These backpacks are not offered by every manufacturer. However, there are also manufacturers who have developed special systems that allow you to adjust the back length. Therefore, measure your back length precisely to find the ideal backpack for your height.
Hiking backpacks for tall people
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The Futura series from Deuter Lightweight, comfortable, and breathable (from approx. 1.4 kg)
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The Pyrox series from Tatonka Robust, spacious, and individually adjustable (from approx. 1.9 kg)
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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
What backpack size for 1 week
For a one-week tour, a backpack with 50-70 liters is suitable. This backpack offers enough space for the most important items like clothing, hygiene products, and possibly sleeping gear. Plan well to avoid carrying unnecessary weight!
What backpack size for 2 weeks?
For two weeks, it depends on whether you can wash your clothes along the way. 60-80 liters are recommended if you have no washing options. With washing possibilities, you could reduce to 50-60 liters.
What backpack size for 3 weeks?
Here, 70+ liters make sense, especially for trekking tours without resupply options. Make sure to organize the backpack well and leave space in the top lid for frequently needed items (e.g., phone or rain cover).
What does the size "misc" mean on the backpack?
"Misc" stands for "miscellaneous" and is sometimes used to describe a one-size or a backpack variant without a fixed liter capacity. Such backpacks are often flexibly expandable or specially designed for a specific purpose.
The next adventure is waiting for you!
Whether you are going on a short day hike, want to explore new countries as a backpacker, or are planning a long trekking tour – the right backpack makes life on the go easier. Use the liter capacity as a guide, but don’t forget to also adapt the backpack to your body and the planned activities!
